With cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, fall is a favorite for many in the Midwest. Bryan, Ohio, is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, and the fall months here are no exception. You’ll find fantastic events, along with a variety of other activities to round out your stay.
Saturday, September 23 is a big day in Bryan, with three well-loved events taking place throughout the city, all running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A free shuttle makes travel easier, with pick-up and drop-off happening at the Chamber of Commerce and Ice Arena every 15-20 minutes.
Barn Fest celebrates 46 years this year! This popular event is held at the MacDonald-Ruff Ice Arena, where you’ll be welcomed by the delightful aroma of homemade vegetable-beef soup cooking over an open fire. Attendees can shop at more than 60 craft vendors, select beautiful mums and other fall decor, and snack on homemade kettle corn. Admission is $2, and kids under 10 are free.
Fall Fest takes place around the square in downtown Bryan. In addition to a great selection of crafters, attendees will find the Bryan Farmers Market, numerous food trucks and festive scarecrows decorated by local businesses. Many downtown shops and restaurants celebrate as well, so be sure to check them out!
Fountain City Fandemonium is held at the Bryan Main Library & Local History Center, just northeast of the square. It’s a celebration of all fandoms, and you’ll find vendors, authors, artists, face painting and a lot of fun. Costumes are encouraged, and admission is free.
Williams County Community Concert Association’s Live on Stage series kicks off on Saturday, October 3. Female trio, The Starlets, will perform pop hits and classics at the Bryan Arts & Education Auditorium. Tickets are available for a single performance or for the entire series of top-notch entertainment.
Oktoberfest comes to downtown Bryan on Saturday, October 7. Experience the sights, flavors and sounds of Deutschland, right here in Ohio! Dance to live polka music, try your hand at stein-hoisting, and watch traditional German folk dancers. Of course, there will be plenty of delicious eats and beer! Admission is $5 (3 and under free), with drink tickets, games and food available for purchase.
What else can you do during your fall visit to Bryan?
- Cozy up for drinks around the fire pit at Kora Brew House & Wine Bar, Third Rail Saloon or Father John’s Microbrewery
- Stroll or bike on one of the many paths in Bryan’s beautiful park system
- Enjoy a game of disc golf at Opdycke Park or Recreation Park
- Catch a live production of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at the Bryan Theatre
- Take a tour of Fountain Grove Cemetery on October 21
- Enjoy the vineyard’s autumn beauty at Stoney Ridge Winery in rural Bryan or Michindoh Winery in nearby Edgerton
- Visit our locally-owned, unique boutiques around the downtown